(compressed file)
RiverFIRST: A Parks Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront
A 20-year city-building vision to reconnect people from near and far wit with one of the three great rivers of the world and "America's fourth coast."
Design Tom Leader Studio and Kennedy and Violich Architecture lead a multifaceted team of professionals to conceptualize five 21-st century parks for development within five years. These projects will revolutionize how we interact with the river, its landscape, our city and each other.
HR&A consultants contributed analysis and recommendations to the 5-year implementation plan.
Includes implementation grid, community engagement survey results, and letters of support and comments from more than 30 organizations and individuals.
(For reproduction-quality images, please contact us.)
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is actively assembling riverfront properties that will, in time, become developed parkland as envisioned by RiverFirst and the Above the Falls Regional Park Master Plan. Often, the properties have continuing commercial uses or are otherwise not ready for park development.
The Park Board annually sets aside funds to help manage the properties. However, it’s a struggle to implement a successful toolkit of simple yet impactful management strategies that demonstrate good stewardship, communicate positive messages and provide compelling community value. As a result, they often appear abandoned, don’t communicate positive messages to the public and provide little functional value.
The Dept. of Landscape Architecture at the University of Minnesota College of Design's RA-In-Practice program through the Minneapolis Parks Foundation has developed a policy framework and conceptual approaches to managing properties that celebrate them as meaningful public spaces with minimal capital investment.
This strategy was prepared over 2015-2016 with these Research Assistants: Leslie Johnson, Han Do and Chris Tallman.
RiverFirst: A Park Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront.
A 20-year vision to re-create the quintessential Mississippi Riverfront city -- for the 21st century and beyond.
Authors: Tom Leader Studio, Kennedy & Violich Architecture under the Minneapolis Park Board's Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative, with Groundwork City Building and HR&A Advisors.
Executive Summary: Schematic Design, Finance Strategy and Next StepsRiverFirst Initiative
Where are we going and how are we going to pay for it? These questions are tackled - in summary - in the following document. This executive summary is the companion to two additional presentations made by the RiverFirst team. Check out the schematic design and funding strategy presentations uploaded May 2 for more detail.
In this presentation you'll get a preview of the public-private funding strategies for RiverFirst. Included are demographic maps of the RiverFirst area, key themes for implementation, findings about perception and approach to implementation, and broad Priority Project funding projections.
Donjek Inc. of St. Paul, Minnesota, completed the Finance Strategy research and analysis and prepared these Initial Findings.
The Major and Collector Street Plan (MCSP) is a comprehensive plan and implementation tool for guiding public and private investment in the major streets (Arterial-Boulevards, Arterial- Parkways and Collector-Avenues) that make up the backbone of the city’s transportation system.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is actively assembling riverfront properties that will, in time, become developed parkland as envisioned by RiverFirst and the Above the Falls Regional Park Master Plan. Often, the properties have continuing commercial uses or are otherwise not ready for park development.
The Park Board annually sets aside funds to help manage the properties. However, it’s a struggle to implement a successful toolkit of simple yet impactful management strategies that demonstrate good stewardship, communicate positive messages and provide compelling community value. As a result, they often appear abandoned, don’t communicate positive messages to the public and provide little functional value.
The Dept. of Landscape Architecture at the University of Minnesota College of Design's RA-In-Practice program through the Minneapolis Parks Foundation has developed a policy framework and conceptual approaches to managing properties that celebrate them as meaningful public spaces with minimal capital investment.
This strategy was prepared over 2015-2016 with these Research Assistants: Leslie Johnson, Han Do and Chris Tallman.
RiverFirst: A Park Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront.
A 20-year vision to re-create the quintessential Mississippi Riverfront city -- for the 21st century and beyond.
Authors: Tom Leader Studio, Kennedy & Violich Architecture under the Minneapolis Park Board's Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative, with Groundwork City Building and HR&A Advisors.
Executive Summary: Schematic Design, Finance Strategy and Next StepsRiverFirst Initiative
Where are we going and how are we going to pay for it? These questions are tackled - in summary - in the following document. This executive summary is the companion to two additional presentations made by the RiverFirst team. Check out the schematic design and funding strategy presentations uploaded May 2 for more detail.
In this presentation you'll get a preview of the public-private funding strategies for RiverFirst. Included are demographic maps of the RiverFirst area, key themes for implementation, findings about perception and approach to implementation, and broad Priority Project funding projections.
Donjek Inc. of St. Paul, Minnesota, completed the Finance Strategy research and analysis and prepared these Initial Findings.
The Major and Collector Street Plan (MCSP) is a comprehensive plan and implementation tool for guiding public and private investment in the major streets (Arterial-Boulevards, Arterial- Parkways and Collector-Avenues) that make up the backbone of the city’s transportation system.
Lesson 18 for Grad Course on CSS (from UTCM Report #08-14-03 "Making Mobility Improvements a Community Asset: Transportation Improvements Using Context-Sensitive Solutions")
Fairgrounds Roadway Widening Public Hearing (March 17, 2015)City of Midland
The purpose of this hearing was to present the planned improvements to Fairgrounds Road from State Loop (SL) 250 to Pecan Avenue in the City of Midland, Midland County, Texas, and to receive public comment. Displays will be available for viewing at 6:00 p.m. with the formal hearing commencing at 7:00 p.m.
The existing facility consists of one 12-foot travel lane in each direction with no shoulders. The existing right-of-way (ROW) width varies from approximately 62 feet south of Wadley Avenue to 77 feet historically used for the roadway north of Wadley Avenue.
The proposed project would widen Fairgrounds Road from two lanes to five lanes. South of Wadley Avenue, Fairgrounds Road would consist of one 11-foot lane and one 14-foot shared use lane in each direction and an 11-foot continuous center left-turn lane. There would be five-foot wide sidewalks on each side of the roadway. North of Wadley Avenue, Fairgrounds Road would consist of two 12-foot lanes in each direction with a 12-foot continuous center left-turn lane. An eight-foot bike/pedestrian trail would be constructed on the west side of the roadway. The length of the proposed project is approximately 1.5 miles. The proposed typical ROW width would vary from approximately 80 feet south of Wadley Avenue to approximately 129.5 feet north of Wadley Avenue. The proposed improvements would require approximately 11.4 acres of additional ROW, of which, 10.9 acres are already owned by the City of Midland. The proposed project would not result in any residential relocations or commercial displacements. Information about the tentative schedule for ROW acquisition and construction may be obtained from the City of Midland.
As part of this project, the City of Midland is considering a Section 4(f) de minimis impact determination for impacts to F.T. Hogan Park (Hogan Park). An approximate 10.9 acre strip of land generally located east of Hogan Park Golf Course from Wadley Avenue to Loop 250 would be required for permanent incorporation into the proposed transportation facility. A Section 4(f) de minimis finding means that the proposed project would not adversely affect the activities, features, or attributes that qualify Hogan Park for protection under Section 4(f). The City of Midland and TxDOT will consider comments received during this Public Hearing before making a final Section 4(f) de minimis determination.
Project posters describing some of the projects completed under the MAPC's Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant. The posters were displayed at the final meeting of the Sustainable Communities Consortium on May 21, 2014, Boston, Massachusetts.
Forward Thinking: A Study In Transportation, Land Use And Urban Design In Nag...Willy Prilles
Presentation of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Transportation and Land Use Group on June 7, 2007 at the Bicol Science and Technology Centrum, Naga City, in conjunction with their Naga Planning Studio Course.
Slideshow: RiverFirst Design and Implementation Plan (presented Sept 2011)RiverFirst Initiative
RiverFirst riverfront parks development proposal implementation plan slideshow, presented by HRA finance consultants and TLS/KVA, September 2011 in Minneapolis.
Provides reasons for restoring urban streams in Euclid OH, an inner ring suburb of Cleveland OH. Describes plans to create the Creek 5 Green Stream Corridor on Creek 5, a small Lake Erie tributary east of Cleveland. Creek 5 is an "Escarpment Run" that drains the face of the Portage Escarpment. Describes the St. Robert and Stevensons lots within the corridor. Links with other Bluestone Heights slideshare presentations on urban stream restoration in Euclid, OH.
Provides reasons for restoring urban streams in Euclid OH, an inner ring suburb of Cleveland OH. Describes plans to create the Creek 5 Green Stream Corridor on Creek 5, a small Lake Erie tributary east of Cleveland. Creek 5 is an Escarpment Run that drains the face of the Portage Escarpment. Describes the St. Robert and Stevensons lots within the corridor. Links with other Bluestone Heights slideshare presentations on urban stream restoration in Euclid, OH.
Wanting to join a design competition, but questioning yourself on why you are joining in the first place? Just to win?
Thinking of joining a design competition, but stuck at coming out with a game-changing idea?
Looking at submitting your design for a design competition, but not sure how to stand out?
Discover with me on the 3 keys on acing your next design competition and how I use my 3 Peas Strategy to win over 10 design competitions both locally and internationally.
This is my first presentation on Slideshare, so do let me know your honest feedback on how I can improve and do better. I would really appreciate the support! :)
Enjoy,
Joseph
Lesson 18 for Grad Course on CSS (from UTCM Report #08-14-03 "Making Mobility Improvements a Community Asset: Transportation Improvements Using Context-Sensitive Solutions")
Fairgrounds Roadway Widening Public Hearing (March 17, 2015)City of Midland
The purpose of this hearing was to present the planned improvements to Fairgrounds Road from State Loop (SL) 250 to Pecan Avenue in the City of Midland, Midland County, Texas, and to receive public comment. Displays will be available for viewing at 6:00 p.m. with the formal hearing commencing at 7:00 p.m.
The existing facility consists of one 12-foot travel lane in each direction with no shoulders. The existing right-of-way (ROW) width varies from approximately 62 feet south of Wadley Avenue to 77 feet historically used for the roadway north of Wadley Avenue.
The proposed project would widen Fairgrounds Road from two lanes to five lanes. South of Wadley Avenue, Fairgrounds Road would consist of one 11-foot lane and one 14-foot shared use lane in each direction and an 11-foot continuous center left-turn lane. There would be five-foot wide sidewalks on each side of the roadway. North of Wadley Avenue, Fairgrounds Road would consist of two 12-foot lanes in each direction with a 12-foot continuous center left-turn lane. An eight-foot bike/pedestrian trail would be constructed on the west side of the roadway. The length of the proposed project is approximately 1.5 miles. The proposed typical ROW width would vary from approximately 80 feet south of Wadley Avenue to approximately 129.5 feet north of Wadley Avenue. The proposed improvements would require approximately 11.4 acres of additional ROW, of which, 10.9 acres are already owned by the City of Midland. The proposed project would not result in any residential relocations or commercial displacements. Information about the tentative schedule for ROW acquisition and construction may be obtained from the City of Midland.
As part of this project, the City of Midland is considering a Section 4(f) de minimis impact determination for impacts to F.T. Hogan Park (Hogan Park). An approximate 10.9 acre strip of land generally located east of Hogan Park Golf Course from Wadley Avenue to Loop 250 would be required for permanent incorporation into the proposed transportation facility. A Section 4(f) de minimis finding means that the proposed project would not adversely affect the activities, features, or attributes that qualify Hogan Park for protection under Section 4(f). The City of Midland and TxDOT will consider comments received during this Public Hearing before making a final Section 4(f) de minimis determination.
Project posters describing some of the projects completed under the MAPC's Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant. The posters were displayed at the final meeting of the Sustainable Communities Consortium on May 21, 2014, Boston, Massachusetts.
Forward Thinking: A Study In Transportation, Land Use And Urban Design In Nag...Willy Prilles
Presentation of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Transportation and Land Use Group on June 7, 2007 at the Bicol Science and Technology Centrum, Naga City, in conjunction with their Naga Planning Studio Course.
Slideshow: RiverFirst Design and Implementation Plan (presented Sept 2011)RiverFirst Initiative
RiverFirst riverfront parks development proposal implementation plan slideshow, presented by HRA finance consultants and TLS/KVA, September 2011 in Minneapolis.
Provides reasons for restoring urban streams in Euclid OH, an inner ring suburb of Cleveland OH. Describes plans to create the Creek 5 Green Stream Corridor on Creek 5, a small Lake Erie tributary east of Cleveland. Creek 5 is an "Escarpment Run" that drains the face of the Portage Escarpment. Describes the St. Robert and Stevensons lots within the corridor. Links with other Bluestone Heights slideshare presentations on urban stream restoration in Euclid, OH.
Provides reasons for restoring urban streams in Euclid OH, an inner ring suburb of Cleveland OH. Describes plans to create the Creek 5 Green Stream Corridor on Creek 5, a small Lake Erie tributary east of Cleveland. Creek 5 is an Escarpment Run that drains the face of the Portage Escarpment. Describes the St. Robert and Stevensons lots within the corridor. Links with other Bluestone Heights slideshare presentations on urban stream restoration in Euclid, OH.
Wanting to join a design competition, but questioning yourself on why you are joining in the first place? Just to win?
Thinking of joining a design competition, but stuck at coming out with a game-changing idea?
Looking at submitting your design for a design competition, but not sure how to stand out?
Discover with me on the 3 keys on acing your next design competition and how I use my 3 Peas Strategy to win over 10 design competitions both locally and internationally.
This is my first presentation on Slideshare, so do let me know your honest feedback on how I can improve and do better. I would really appreciate the support! :)
Enjoy,
Joseph
Detroit’s downtown is experiencing a renaissance unlike anything it has seen in decades. Largely vacant office buildings are filling up with new businesses and residents, the ground floors will soon welcome new shops and restaurants, and the streets and public spaces throughout the downtown are returning to life. Soon a new streetcar on Woodward Avenue, the M-1, will tie the downtown into the City of Detroit to the north, carrying residents, students and employees into the downtown and linking key destinations.
This report focuses on how the public spaces, and particularly the three major downtown parks, can be transformed, both in the long and short term — beginning summer 2013! — so that they support this exciting commercial and residential rebirth in the downtown, and also become destinations in their own right. To develop these ideas, Project For Public Spaces (PPS) brought into focus the concept of Placemaking to downtown Detroit and engaged the public in the Placemaking process. It is the intention of the stakeholder group to begin implementation of these ideas in order to create safe places for Detroit residents, workers and visitors.
Evaluating Manufacturing Districts in NYC in order to declare them safe for Mixed Use Zoning (including Residential and Commercial Uses) is a crutial and complex problem. This papers aims to use extant Mapping Technologies and combine them with A.M.Bests Engineering Guides 10 point scale to give a clear rating of historic and forward Environmental Risks..
2020 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report ™
Teaching and Learning Edition .
Anticipating the future is human nature. As anyone
who has tried meditation knows, staying in the present
is surprisingly difficult because our minds spend so
much time reflecting on the past or anticipating the future.
Humans are planners, worriers, and dreamers, and those plans,
worries, and dreams are rooted in our mental constructs of the
future. For sixteen years, the Horizon Report has provided
a construct of the future of educational technology in higher
education, based on a structure of three time horizons.
Anticipating the future is risky. As any science fiction reader or
future-enthusiast knows, extricating present-state experience
from visions of the future is very difficult.1
The track record
of predictions—whether about the stock market, the World
Series, world events, or technology—is generally so poor that
it’s a wonder anyone dares to make them. With technology in
particular, we tend to overestimate its short-term impact and
underestimate its long-term impact.2
The Horizon Report has
provided ample documentation of predictions, from educational
technology experts, of the future impact of educational
technology on teaching, learning, and creative inquiry.
Unfortunately, its track record has been described as fair to
middling.3
Why would EDUCAUSE bother to continue this
publication if its level of accuracy is so low?
High Performance Green Building: What is it worth?scottbrooker
A report compiled by Cascadia, the Vancouver Valuation Accord and Cushman & Wakefield, investigating the market value of high performance green buildings.
Schematic Design of RiverFirst Priority Projects is progressing well, as this presentation from TLS/KVA, the RiverFirst Design Team, demonstrates. In this document, you'll see evidence of the Design Team's flexible approach to developing parks and development side-by-side, over time. These iterations of the original RiverFirst Vision remain true to the RiverFirst principles - Go with the Flow, Design with Topography, Both/And, Parks Plus - while adapting to the existing conditions. See schematics for: "Loops" of Mississippi Riverfront trails and bridge paths, connecting avenues, a kit of parts for a dynamic wayfinding proposal, and man-made bio-islands to float seasonally in the Mississippi River. Look especially for Scherer Park, where the restoration of Hall's Island makes way for a protected cove and beach, brings historic interest and, most importantly, is the first of multiple habitat patches needed to transform the Upper Riverfront from "ditch" to destination - for people and creatures.
What interests some Minnesotans most about RiverFirst? Jon Commers, Principal of Donjek, told our Steering Committee on January 17, that three themes are emerging from his research:
Interest in how RiverFirst binds together separate sites
Eagerness for immediate demonstration
Desire to make RiverFirst concrete for the public
Donjek is preparing the RiverFirst Funding Strategy, scheduled for release this July. Commers and his team have been interviewing leaders in the private, public and nonprofit sectors, along with other stakeholders.
Flip through his summary presentation below for more information.
Details proposed island restoration in the Upper Mississippi as part of an ecologically sustainable, multifunctional riverfront park design.
TLS/KVA presentation, prepared with Kestrel Design Group, InterFluve and Barr Engineering, and given to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
DNR and USACE are regulatory agencies overseeing the RiverFirst area.
Mary deLaittre's presentation for neighborhood and community groups, highlighting RiverFIRST projects and other important information relevant to near- and long-term Upper Riverfront parks development in Minneapolis
Design team TLS/KVA prepared a substantial review and explanation of possible priority sites in the Mpls Riverfront Development Initiative. This book contains new information and many new images of their design work.
TLS/KVA is the design partner of the Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative (MR|DI). In this presentation, the design team outlines their design criteria for identifying priority parks projects - sites and/or systems - for development along the Upper Riverfront in Minneapolis within the next five years.
Expert Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Drafting ServicesResDraft
Whether you’re looking to create a guest house, a rental unit, or a private retreat, our experienced team will design a space that complements your existing home and maximizes your investment. We provide personalized, comprehensive expert accessory dwelling unit (ADU)drafting solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring a seamless process from concept to completion.
You could be a professional graphic designer and still make mistakes. There is always the possibility of human error. On the other hand if you’re not a designer, the chances of making some common graphic design mistakes are even higher. Because you don’t know what you don’t know. That’s where this blog comes in. To make your job easier and help you create better designs, we have put together a list of common graphic design mistakes that you need to avoid.
Between Filth and Fortune- Urban Cattle Foraging Realities by Devi S Nair, An...Mansi Shah
This study examines cattle rearing in urban and rural settings, focusing on milk production and consumption. By exploring a case in Ahmedabad, it highlights the challenges and processes in dairy farming across different environments, emphasising the need for sustainable practices and the essential role of milk in daily consumption.
Hello everyone! I am thrilled to present my latest portfolio on LinkedIn, marking the culmination of my architectural journey thus far. Over the span of five years, I've been fortunate to acquire a wealth of knowledge under the guidance of esteemed professors and industry mentors. From rigorous academic pursuits to practical engagements, each experience has contributed to my growth and refinement as an architecture student. This portfolio not only showcases my projects but also underscores my attention to detail and to innovative architecture as a profession.
White wonder, Work developed by Eva TschoppMansi Shah
White Wonder by Eva Tschopp
A tale about our culture around the use of fertilizers and pesticides visiting small farms around Ahmedabad in Matar and Shilaj.
Transforming Brand Perception and Boosting Profitabilityaaryangarg12
In today's digital era, the dynamics of brand perception, consumer behavior, and profitability have been profoundly reshaped by the synergy of branding, social media, and website design. This research paper investigates the transformative power of these elements in influencing how individuals perceive brands and products and how this transformation can be harnessed to drive sales and profitability for businesses.
Through an exploration of brand psychology and consumer behavior, this study sheds light on the intricate ways in which effective branding strategies, strategic social media engagement, and user-centric website design contribute to altering consumers' perceptions. We delve into the principles that underlie successful brand transformations, examining how visual identity, messaging, and storytelling can captivate and resonate with target audiences.
Methodologically, this research employs a comprehensive approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. Real-world case studies illustrate the impact of branding, social media campaigns, and website redesigns on consumer perception, sales figures, and profitability. We assess the various metrics, including brand awareness, customer engagement, conversion rates, and revenue growth, to measure the effectiveness of these strategies.
The results underscore the pivotal role of cohesive branding, social media influence, and website usability in shaping positive brand perceptions, influencing consumer decisions, and ultimately bolstering sales and profitability. This paper provides actionable insights and strategic recommendations for businesses seeking to leverage branding, social media, and website design as potent tools to enhance their market position and financial success.
3. Introduction
20 September 2011 and urban design teams as finalists.The four teams included Ken Smith Strategy
Workshop, New York; Stoss Landscape Urbanism, Boston; TLS/KVA, Berkeley; The MR|DI has operated along seven strategic tracks to produce
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and Turenscape, Beijing. Each were paid $30,000 and given two and a half the development plan for the Upper Riverfront. This design-based
2117 West River Road months to create a vision. During this time, the MR|DC sponsored a series process incorporated research, analysis and synthesis to produce—and
Minneapolis, MN 55411 of community engagement events to cultivate support, provide information realize—a feasible implementation process that is equal parts inspiration
Dear Commissioners, to the designers about our community and its river, and educate the next and sustainability.
generation of park stewards. The competing design teams made a public
We are at an historic moment. Just as Minneapolis’ civic leaders 125 years presentation of their work at the Walker Art Center to an overflow crowd Organizational Development. Create community-based Steering,
ago had the opportunity and foresight to create the park system we all in January, and the following day the jury selected the winning team. TLS/ Technical and Advisory committees to help shape the design
enjoy today, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) now has KVA and their RiverFIRST proposal were selected for their depth of research, development strategy.
the opportunity to substantively plan for future generations of park users. innovative and inspiring design, and fulfillment of the competition goals. Planning and Design. Research, analyze and synthesize information
There was tremendous interest in and support of the design competition—a to create the final deliverable: recommendations for a long-term
In this spirit, the Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative (MR|DI)
testament to the community’s love of parks, passion for the Mississippi River development framework and short- term project(s) identification.
submits a comprehensive vision, recommendation and implementation
and desire to be inspired by innovative city building.
plan for the RiverFIRST design proposal. The work of a team comprised of Community Engagement. Reconnect the broader community with the
Kennedy & Violich Architecture (KVA), Boston; Tom Leader Studio (TLS), In April 2011, MPRB established the Minneapolis Riverfront Development river and provide opportunities for community members to substantively
Berkeley; HR&A Advisors—a real estate and economic development Initiative (MR|DI) as an interdisciplinary, comprehensive and integrated engage in the creation of the design development strategy and
planning firm from New York City; and Groundwork: The Foundation for City planning endeavor to follow through with the promise of the competition, contribute their knowledge of the river and neighborhoods.
Building—a Minneapolis-based planning firm which managed the process— to connect citizens and visitors with new multi-functional Upper Riverfront
this report is the culmination of a 12-month process and a milestone in what parks. The MR|DI team was charged with taking the RiverFIRST proposal Resource Identification. Identify public and private financing to ensure
will be a long-term Upper Mississippi River development strategy. from vision to reality, researching the feasibility of the eight sites and 3 sustainable development.
systems that made up the plan and creating workable plan for short- and Political. Cultivate support and advocacy.
Process long-term development. Beginning in April, TLS/KVA and HR&A Advisors
In September of 2010, the MPRB and The Minneapolis Parks Foundation, Integration. Analyze existing plans, projects, proposals and
launched a three-month, in-depth information gathering process that
along with creative partners The University of Minnesota College organizational structures to coordinate efforts and outcomes, including
was led by the MR|DI project team and included the Steering, Advisory
of Design and Walker Art Center, launched an international design Above the Falls and the Park Board’s Comprehensive Plan(s).
and Technical committees and the public. From June through August,
competition addressing Minneapolis’ Upper Riverfront. The competition, as the team continued to refine its proposal, the MR|DI implemented Communication. Maintain the open exchange of information among the
the Minneapolis Riverfront Design Competition (MR|DC) sought design a multidimensional community engagement process to present the MR|DI, the public and stakeholders, communicate clearly, frequently and
proposals for the area of the Mississippi River extending from the Stone RiverFIRST concept to interested communities, gather input and identify with transparency.
Arch Bridge, north 5.5 miles to Minneapolis’ city limits, including land along priority projects. What follows are the results of that intensive effort.
both sides of the river. It is within this context that we submit this report, to assist the
Approach Commissioners to imagine what could be and to make informed decisions.
The goals of the competition were to create a vision that: Our hope is that we can continue to work together, as a community, to
The RiverFIRST proposal is critical to the creation of a larger regional
• Established parks as the engine for economic development build on our past success and create an even better region for the future.
parks and trails network, as well as ecological and infrastructure systems.
along the river It fills a gap in the Mississippi River parks and trails system and contributes Thank you for this historic opportunity,
• Knit both sides of the riverfront together with their surrounding significantly to the improved water quality of the river, completes a critical
communities, thereby transforming the river from a barrier to a connector connection in the larger City of Minneapolis Grand Rounds and links into
the existing corridor initiatives taking place on both sides of the river.
• Re-focused the city toward one of the three great rivers of the world, Mary deLaittre
Furthermore, it creates a healthy community network and opportunities for
an extraordinary environmental amenity that defines Minneapolis’ civic MR|DI Project Manager
economic development, by tying into the expansive regional parks and trails
identity—past, present and future Principal, Groundwork: The Foundation for City Building
system managed by the Three Rivers Park District and the Metropolitan
AFT
The competition attracted 55 preliminary designs from 14 countries on five Council. When realized, the RiverFIRST proposal will enhance our regional
identity and reinforce our role as civic leaders in the 21st century.
DR
continents. From that pool of applicants a jury of 14 community decision
makers and design professionals selected four award-winning landscape
3
4. Executive Summary
The Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative (MR|DI) RiverFIRST Farview Park Expansion: This major new park extension bridges
is a visionary planning effort for the Minneapolis Upper The KVA/TLS concept, RiverFIRST, offers a dynamic vision for a Interstate 94 and reconnects the high point of the city and
renewed and revitalized Upper River corridor through a proposed communities in North Minneapolis with the Mississippi River. The
Mississippi River corridor that has comprised extensive
series of eight areas of opportunity. RiverFIRST well fulfills the three proposal could ultimately cap the portion of I-94 between 26th and
research and analysis, design inquiry, community outreach, 28th Streets North with a major expansion of Farview Park and the
goals of the design competition:
and consensus building. The Initiative is a collaboration greening of both streets.
among its sponsor, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation • Establish parks as the engine for economic development
along the river Northside Wetlands Park: A molded alluvial wetland landscape is
Board (MPRB); two design firms—Kennedy & Violich
reclaimed to create a civic-scaled climate change eco-infrastructure,
Architecture (KVA), Boston and Tom Leader Studio (TLS) • Knit both sides of the riverfront together with their surrounding providing bio-filtration for storm water flows, increased flood
Berkeley; HR&A Advisors, a real estate and economic communities, thereby transforming the river from a barrier protection, and new riverfront habitats.
development planning firm from New York City; and to a connector
Northeast Riverfront Park: Ravine landscapes remediate storm
Groundwork City Building, a Minneapolis-based planning • Re-focus the city toward one of the three great rivers of the world, water and form stepped eco-stairs for flows of water, people, and
firm which is responsible for guiding the process, with an extraordinary environmental amenity that defines Minneapolis’ wildlife, and serve as high points to overlook the Mississippi, as well
public relations firm Tableau Pro. civic identity—past, present and future as downtown Minneapolis.
The 5-month long collaboration of the MR|DI followed a The eight RiverFIRST areas of opportunity include: Scherer Park: With the restoration of Hall’s Island and the creation
12-month process that began with an international design Riverfront Trails: The RiverFIRST trail system—a combination of of a river beach cove, Scherer Park will serve as a recreational entry
point to the Mississippi trail and park system for kayaks, bikes, skiers,
competition which awarded the commission to KVA/TLS out pedestrian and bicycle trails along the river’s banks and “Knot
Bridges” attached to existing bridges—will complete critical runners and walkers. The park will become a signature 21st-century
of 55 entries from around the world. It culminates with this urban park landscape. It will be the center of a riverfront destination
comprehensive vision and implementation framework for 5.5 connections in the Grand Rounds system, and better connect North
Minneapolis to Northeast Minneapolis for pedestrians and cyclists. flanked by Boom Island and Sheridan Park and surrounded by a
miles of the Minneapolis Upper Mississippi River corridor. vibrant mix of development that will energize the riverfront.
BioHavens: A protected network of floating islands made of robust,
lightweight geo-textiles and 100% recycled PET materials, the Spirit Island: A sacred place for the Dakota Indians for generations,
BioHavens will create riparian habitat for endangered species and the now vanished Spirit Island will be symbolized by an illuminated
migratory birds by providing nesting and staging areas for endangered river weir, which marks the site as the oracle and soul of the river. This
aquatic and land animals and plants while also cleaning water. visual gesture will mark a commitment to a much deeper cross-cultural
AFT
understanding so important to the life of our city.
DR
Downtown Gateway Park: A dramatic gateway to Minneapolis at
the historic gateway site of the Hennepin Avenue Bridge, linked to
the new Public Library via a proposed signature park and to Nicollet
Mall via a linear park. This project is lead by Trust for Public Land and
downtown interests.
4
5. Implementation Flexibility Priority Projects: 0-5 Year Plan
Local Solutions, Regional Impact The RiverFIRST proposal offers built-in flexibility to phase investments Based on the refinement of preliminary plans, extensive community
The Minneapolis park system is renown for the network of parkways, and to be opportunistic. Land availability, funding changes, engagement, and the five guiding implementation criteria listed
trails and greenways that interlink regional park destinations. The philanthropy and development interests prompt the importance of above, a series of systems and sites have emerged as priority
RiverFIRST proposal builds on this powerful legacy with the creation altering course to capitalize on opportunities. The RiverFIRST proposal demonstration projects for implementation in the near term:
of riverfront regional parks connected by a sophisticated network of facilitates flexibility for those overseeing implementation.
Riverfront Trail System + Farview Park Connections:
ecological, infrastructure trail systems. It fills a gap in the Mississippi Phasing Development of pedestrian and bike trails, “Knot Bridges” and
River parks and trails system and contributes significantly to the Given its ambition, RiverFIRST will likely be built over a generation, implementation of the Farview Park connections to the River via the
improved water quality of the river, completes a critical connection or more. Successful completion of the plan will depend in substantial North 26th Avenue Greenway and 28th Avenue connection.
in the larger Minneapolis Grand Rounds and links into the existing part on thoughtful phasing. Getting the first phases right will set the
corridor initiatives taking place on both sides of the river. Furthermore, stage for the long-term build-out of the grand vision presented in this BioHavens: Builds on the highly successful demonstration project
it creates a healthy community network and opportunities for document. The early phases will need to embrace at least four criteria launched in August, 2011 by ASLA at Spring Lake in Minneapolis.
economic development, by tying into the expansive regional parks for success:
and trails system managed by the Three Rivers Park District and the Scherer Park: The proposal leverages a new signature riverfront
Metropolitan Council. When realized, the RiverFIRST proposal will • Bring the city from all neighborhoods and backgrounds park for economic development, and captures a portion of that
enhance our regional identity and reinforce our role as civic leaders in to the river value for the long-term operations and maintenance of that park
the 21st century. Northside Wetlands Park: Re-establishes historic floodplain
• Foster advocacy for plan completion from citizens, businesses,
A Focus of City-Building and institutions alike wetlands that create a public and ecological amenity offering an
Like the Minneapolis Grand Rounds have done throughout history, the opportunity to partner with research and education institutions. The
• Secure positive media attention and promote a Minneapolis park could anchor and create value for the Upper Harbor Terminal
RiverFIRST proposal establishes the Minneapolis Upper River corridor
brand of 21st century parks redevelopment.
as a central public amenity around which economic development in
this part of the City will focus. • Cooperation among public sector agencies and partnership Downtown Gateway Park: Establishes a downtown park
with private sector organizations and institutions destination of national significance, reestablishes an open space
Multiple Leaders
The proposal provides the opportunity for multiple organizations, link between downtown and the riverfront, and leverages existing
institutions and community interests to take leadership and/or efforts led by the Trust for Public Land and downtown stakeholders.
collaborative and supporting roles in implementation, depending on These five projects each have the potential to establish a successful
the project and the myriad variables that define the project. first phase of development that can build momentum for the
overall completion of RiverFIRST over time. They can be pursued
simultaneously, with support from multiple stakeholders, or in smaller
combinations, depending on resource availability.
DRAFT
5
6. Long Term Vision: 5 Years and Beyond Operations and Maintenance Funding • Institutional Partnerships: Portions of the RiverFIRST plan
Farview Park Extension: Builds on priority projects with the Similar to capital costs, operating expenses and ongoing maintenance should be stewarded by major institutions in Minneapolis and
establishment of the 26th Avenue and 28th Avenue connections. of these sites will be sourced from a combination of public and the region. Allowing existing organizations to operate programs
The longer-term vision would realize a green cap over I-94 and private funding, as well as in-kind landscape management and on the sites contemplated for redevelopment can support the
transform the existing garbage transfer station into a river-related strategies for developing earned income. A substantial portion of plan’s operational sustainability by displacing a need for public
community education facility. funds for operations and maintenance must be provided by MPRB, funds to maintain the lands. MPRB, the City of Minneapolis, and
as is standard practice in Minneapolis and cities across the country. other project stakeholders should explore how organizations like
Northeast Riverfront Park: Long-term acquisition of land and the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory or the University of Minnesota,
A stable and substantial base of City funding is a prerequisite for
easements allows the creation of park, storm water cleaning ravines, among others, might support the ongoing operations of certain
maximizing philanthropy, and will be required to ensure the park
neighborhood connections and river access. RiverFIRST proposals through institutional programming.
meets its civic aspirations.
Certain sites may even be deeded (within the bounds of certain
Spirit Island: Begins a process of substantive engagement with
RiverFIRST will need to maximize opportunities for raising funds restrictions due to regional park funding) to such organizations
the Dakota community to determine interest in the creation of a
from private resources for ongoing maintenance of the new parks with agreements for public access and programming in
commemorative art project and long-term collaboration to realize
wherever possible to ensure that the costs of maintaining new parks is perpetuity.
the project.
sustainable within MPRB’s operating budget.
• Environmental Benefits: Implementation of certain elements
Capital Funding In the initial years of the park development and operations, MPRB of the RiverFIRST plan, such as the wetlands at Upper Harbor
Great ideas supported by great designs—like those envisioned for funding will likely be the only major source of operating revenue Terminal and the stormwater ravines along the Northeast Bluffs,
River FIRST—paired with strong leadership from government, citizens, for the park. Over time, however, as the vision is implemented and can reduce the amount of impervious surface along the riverfront
businesses and institutions, have significant capacity to attract capital. the MR|DI system becomes more successful – and requires more and can also clean stormwater. As a result, property owners may
Groundswells of popular support for compelling projects can secure investment – MPRB will need to rely on several potential sources of be able to avert stormwater fees, which can run into the tens of
substantial capital funds from local, state, and federal governments. additional revenue to fill the likely funding gap. These sources should thousands of dollars every year. Where there is a net saving of
While a strategy for capital funding is being developed for each include the following: stormwater runoff, MPRB should seek to capture the excess in
project consideration should be given to: stormwater fees that a property owner would have to pay if runoff
• Real Estate Development and Assessments: With the
were not averted or cleaned, so long as the property owners’ net
• Investment from local institutions interested in particular portions implementation of Scherer Park, new value will be created for
operating income is not disproportionately negatively affected.
of the RiverFIRST plan should be priority stewards the surrounding district. Therefore, since real estate is typically
the greatest potential source of privately-generated funds for • Philanthropy, Sponsorships, and Programming: In addition
• Portions of signature projects should be targeted for parkland operations and maintenance, and since either MPRB or to the three primary sources targeted above, RiverFIRST
philanthropic investments from individuals, foundations, the City of Minneapolis control developable land in the district, stakeholders should cultivate the philanthropic community,
and not-for-profit organizations development on and/or around Scherer, Boom Island, and potential corporate and institutional project sponsors, and major
• Use of the Elwell law and other funding strategies should be Sheridan Park should be prioritized. And, in exchange for the right events like those held at Boom Island, to help offset the costs of
investigated to supplement other sources with funding from to develop, development agreements should outline long-term operating the new parks. While these sources will be important
special assessments participation in operating expenses. for the sustainability of the plan, they are likely to be limited in
terms of total dollar value.
• MRPB, the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, and the
Metropolitan Council should be prepared to make capital
AFT
funds available for each of these projects to help leverage
DR
third-party sources
6
7. Governance Suggested Next Steps
Implementation of the RiverFirst plan will affect lands owned by many The project team will present and deliver copies of the RiverFIRST
different parties, each of whom will have responsibilities for plan proposal and implementation framework to the Minneapolis Park and
stewardship. It also will have economic and fiscal impacts of interest Recreation Board on September 21, 2011.
not only to MPRB, but also the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County,
MPRB Staff intent for the project from this point forward is to allow an
and the entire Twin Cities Metropolitan Region. Stewardship of the
“incubation period” for the revised RiverFIRST plan over the next two
RiverFIRST plan, both in terms of implementation guidance and
months. That time could include a formal public comment period,
ongoing parkland operations and maintenance, must, therefore, be a
ongoing project management and communication activities, as well as
collaborative effort.
preparation by Staff of proposed next steps for consideration by the
The City Department of Planning and Economic Development should Board later this year. Examples of next-step actions are:
work closely with MPRB as it finalizes the revised Above the Falls plan
• Formal approval of the report
to ensure that land use recommendations and investments in public
infrastructure are properly coordinated. These two agencies must also • Authorization of phase 1 implementation/construction documents
work together to attract appropriate development to riverfront sites
and set in place agreements for such real estate developments to • Authorization to initiate a collaborative effort with the City of
provide ongoing sources of funds for parkland benefits. Minneapolis to update the Above the Falls Master Plan.
The five priority projects for RiverFIRST should follow an action plan
established by lead organizations:
• MPRB should spearhead the completion of the Riverfront Trail
System/Farview Park connections and the recreational/supportive
development of Scherer Park.
• The City Department of Planning and Economic Development
should advance the comprehensive redevelopment of the Upper
Harbor Terminal site, implementing the proposed wetlands as
part of its plan.
• The Trust for Public Land should continue to work with downtown
stakeholders, the City of Minneapolis and MPRB to implement
AFT
the Downtown Gateway Park.
DR
• Multiple key organizations should collaborate to implement
BioHavens (floating islands).
7
8. RiverFIRST Guiding Principles
21st Century Challenges
The Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative provides a chance habitats. RiverFirst is guided by similar principles that embrace the notion Park, but also includes the depth of the river and all points in between.
to consider how the Minneapolis park system can protect the national that cities evolve over time and must be allowed to accommodate changes in Understanding the nuanced difference in surface shape and features of
ecological heritage of the Minneapolis Riverfront and the Mississippi River, environmental, social, and economic climates. this landscape creates opportunities for multiple-scaled combinations of
foster community health, support economic opportunity and prepare submerged, emergent, riparian, and meadow upland. This sensibility has
Minneapolis with resilient and sustainable eco-infrastructure for generations Design Principles the potential to guide an urbanistic strategy toward built form that results in
to come. There are 21st Century challenges that are global in nature and RiverFirst is based on four design principles. The first, Go with the Flow, buildings that optimize orientation for natural light, energy harvesting, and
local in impact. Mississippi River access may increase in value as energy costs reflects the dynamic characteristic of the river itself and becomes a model stormwater management.
rise and warming climates reduce winter port closures. Greenhouse gas for other systems such as public access, mobility, and energy infrastructure.
emissions need to be controlled. Storm water systems must be adapted to This principle is based less on the addition of the physical characteristics The third principle, Both/And, addresses the unlikely juxtaposition of the
account for increasing uncertainty in local climate variability. Urban growth that are common to planning but rather on a subtractive approach that Mississippi River to its immediate surroundings, in particular the Northside
must be accommodated. RiverFirst considers these challenges as the exposes the underlying nature of a place, sometimes literally unearthing industrial district which has suffered through neglect and a weak economy.
AFT
means to enable a blue & green way of life to flourish in Minneapolis and to existing conditions in an effort to recover its identity. The daylighting of Both/And provides the groundwork for a condition where two seemingly
DR
attract the brightest creative minds to live in Minneapolis. buried stormwater systems is an example where the act of excavation not conflicting circumstances can be allowed to co-exist, even be strengthened
only points to the significance of a tributaries relationship to the river but by the others presence.
The Mississippi is still a working place for industry, but current economic
simultaneous remediates or cleans the stormwater before entering the river. Finally, Park Plus, reflects the contemporary role that cities must play to
opportunity is hindered by the dislocated relationship between Minneapolis
The effect provides measurable benefits including increased visibility of the address the challenges of the 21st Century. Parks today are expected to
and its river. A planning strategy that prioritizes the Mississippi, that puts
river and thus security, and reduced park maintenance. exceed our normal understanding of a park as a social gathering space rather
it first, is intended to renew the river’s strength and diversity as a living
ecosystem. In doing so, the physical, societal and economic health of the Where Go with the Flow reflects mobility and access, the second principle, it must play a role in reducing energy consumption through environmental
city is placed first. RiverFirst is guided by the dynamics of the river. Water Design with Topography, is more physical in nature. The great range of stewardship, minimizing maintenance costs, and providing places that
carves and erodes to form the river that supports and sustains diverse geographic diversity begins not only with the site’s highest point, Farview support health and safety.
DOWNTOWN
MINNEAPOLIS
SAINT PAUL
CHAIN OF LAKES
LAKE NOKOMIS
REGIONAL MOBILITY SHIPPING LANES SHIPPING LANES
Minneapolis Context Minneapolis Context Minneapolis Context
Grand Rounds Existing Parks Key Text Key Text
Riverfirst Connector Riverfirst Parkland Key Text Key Text
Proposed Regional Trails Key Text Key Text
Parks Regional Trails Key Text
State, Federal Trails
Extended regional trail system Mississippi River Nutritional run-off Mississippi global transportation links
8
9. Loops Moisture Gradients
The north-south Trail System connects with east-west pedestrian walkways Landscape is created by the varying interactions of soil and water. Much of
Phase 1 Loops (Knot Bridges) in a series of recreational River Loop circuits that link North the RiverFirst effort concerns putting seasonal stream and river water back in
Phase 2 Connections
and Northeast Neighborhoods. In so doing, sections of the river can be contact with riverbanks and uplands that have been cut off by piped outfalls,
encircled and begin to create a series of interconnected “rooms” each with bulwarks and embankments. The more we can increase these soil / water
a specific urban and natural character. This simple idea has great strength contacts in terms of length, area, and varying saturation conditions, the
as a means of orientation and breaking down a river that is regional in scale greater the species diversity and ecosystem resilience can be created. These
to something in neighborhood sized chunks. The trail system will have the varying levels of new moisture in the soil – from constant saturation to drier
most flexibility and variety in terms of routes when options for crossing the fast-draining uplands will largely determine the ecosystem types we see in
river are positioned within a five minute walk. One could imagine a series this river reach in the coming years. So not only the plants but the associated,
of linked rubber bands stretched around each room along with the idea interrelated food web of amphibians, insects, birds, and mammals that
that these flexible loops can also be expanded to take in the entire 5 ½ depend on them are fundamentally organized by moisture gradients in the
miles of riverfront and northward beyond. In the same way, loops can and soil. Historically, along this stretch of the Mississippi we had the possibility
should expand into both the Northside and Northeast neighborhoods so of highly varied ecosystems in close proximity due to the river’s varying
they are flexibly joined to the river based system. The result is a flexible, encounters with shorelines, tributaries, and islands. Of course numerous
web-like circulation structure that can organize movement over a significant alterations to the channel have reduced this condition. RiverFirst is working
area of the city. Five minute pedestrian loops can then be joined onto large carefully with topography and day-lighted storm flows to dramatically expand
intermodal systems like the Prairie Loop Shuttle that encircles the entire site the topographic, hydrologic, and consequently, small scale ecological
using Railroad rights-of-ways. diversity throughout this reach.
DRAFT
9
10. Guiding Principles Urban Ecology
leucocephalus
Lontra canadensis
Haliaeetus
Vulpes vulpes
Spilogale putorius
Pandion haliaetus
Circus cyaneus
Ondatra zibethicus
Aegolius funereus
Foodweb
97 Species of Greatest Conservation Need
Micropterus
Dendroica
Aythya affinis
cerulea
Sorex palustris
(SGCN) are known or predicted to occur
Pseudacris
Phenacomys
Pipistrellus
maculosus
within the Riverfirst site. This food web
Necturus
Morone
Megaceryle
examines a small collection of those SGCN
alcyon
and illustrates the necessity for biodiversity
in order to achieve conservation goals and
create a renewed urban ecology.
Plethobasus
Orconectes
Formicinae
Cicindela
Ophiogo
Ceraclea
Dendroc
-mphys
Erynnis
Glycera
-touns
Pimoa
Apis
AFT
Vernonia
DR
Morchella
Phytoplankton
Solidago
Sagittaria
Viburnum
Aster
Solidago
Spartina
Asclepias
Liatris
Regional Corridors Urban Ecology Corridor
Green-Regional Natural Resource/ Source Habitat Urban Fabric River Habitat
Areas Significant Ecological Areas/
Wetlands and Wet Areas (MMCD)
Green Lines-Trails
Blue-Water Bodies
Purple Arrows-Flyway and
Terrestrial Corridors
150 years ago, this reach of the Mississippi was a focus of diverse biological The physical result is tree-like in nature, with the Mississippi itself as the main
activity ranging from bacteria in the soil to the dead plants they break down, trunk and tributary corridors as some of the key structural branches – such as
to the insects, amphibians, snakes, birds, and mammals that consume each Shingle Creek to the north, Basset Creek and other to southwest connecting
other in a complex food chain. This vast interrelated system relies upon a on to the Chain of Lakes and beyond, and a new proposed natural corridor
healthy river and tributaries and generous riverine areas of moist and often to Columbia Park to the Northeast. Once a rich habitat with Sandy Lake at
saturated soils to support it in place. The more mobile species also rely on its core, this current golf course has the potential for restoration as a lake
the river and related corridors to facilitate movement as they seek shelter and and wetland complex. This crucial piece of ecological real estate can also
food over a wider range. Urban interventions, especially in this reach, have function as a future Central Park of Minneapolis as its urban margins increase
fragmented every aspect of the system creating a “missing link” not only in density over the next 20 years. I-94, like most urban highways is laced with
in the Grand Rounds but in the Mississippi Flyway and terrestrial corridors. endless swaths of open soil which lay sterile and create another blockage in
In everything it does, RiverFirst seeks to reverse this disconnection and the system of habitat and natural species cover. This could be transformed
fragmentation through specific measures concerning renewing the natural into diverse urban forest by cultivating every available embankment and sliver
hydrology within urban conditions, increasing areas native landscape types, of residual land with native trees.
and cultivating natural attractors for species that may be in decline or have
left the area entirely.
10
11. Mobility
DRAFT
13 17
6
5
9
3
3.5 mi
9
3
9
Mobility Scales
3
10 32
City Source Users River Loop
3
22
1.8 mi
10
9 12
2 4
1.2 mi
5 888
15
1.3 mi
5
14 0.6 mi
5
16
6
7
3
19
LOOP
1.8 mi
The RiverFirst proposal incorporates new and existing transportation The new Cedar lake Bike trail links the River with Target Field, improving
initiatives to create a sustainable, multi-modal and interconnected suburban and regional public access to the river on the Hiawatha LRT, the
public transportation system for commuting, recreation, and mobility in North Star and future Central, Southwest, and Bottineau LRT lines. Existing
Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Flyway, a comprehensive new North-South train rail lines are retained to facilitate sustainable transportation logistics
16 55
7 16 pedestrian and bicycle Park Trail System, is linked with a East-West Knot for a new eco-business innovation district that can benefit in the future
9
3 Bridge pedestrian and bicycle paths supported by the exiting foundations of from renewable Minnesota wind energy and locally generated solar energy
6 18
City and County bridges. on Parklands. Residents form North and Northeast Neighborhoods will
7 be able to walk, bike or take a clean electric shuttle to work. Nice Ride
Access to the Trail System is provided by existing Bus routes, the proposed stations and public kayak launching sites at the Urban Boat Builder’s facility
clean electric bus Prairie Loop route and a series of new bridge crossings on 28th Avenue North and Scherer Park increase the public accessibility of
MOBILITY over I-94 that connect the North Neighbourhoods with the River. Pedestrian
0 500’ 1000’ 2000’ 4000’
the RiverFirst multi-modal transportation initiative and create a world class
Parkland Prairie Loop
Hiawatha Light Rail
Trail Connection
Secondary Connection
connection improvements to Dowling Street, 34th Avenue North (Perkins Hill recreational and bike commuting network.
Tree Cover
Trails Metro Transit Interstate Highway and City View School), Lowry and Broadway are proposed to compliment the
Proposed Connection NorthStar Commuter Rail Nice Ride Station
central RiverFirst connecting feature, an overpass that links Farview Park, the
Recreation Loops Rail Proposed Nice Ride Station
City’s historic high point, with the River.
11
12. Guiding Principles Green Networks
RIVER TALK WiFi Network
17
13
6
5
9
3
13 10
5 3
15
5 Sea Turtle App Locavore Love Fresh National Geographic
Green Market Finder iPhone App Bird App
14
5
7
3
The RiverFirst proposal leverages the development of Riverfront Neighbourhoods with significant new urban agriculture resources, including
LOOP
Parkland to improve the health of the River and the health of the City native edibles, that build upon existing community gardens, Farmer’s Markets
and its Neighbourhoods. At the larger urban scale, RiverFirst creates and and sustainable organic and slow food establishments.
16
interconnects a series of synergistic Green Networks that are comprised
7 The Green Networks combine to build a large, diverse constituency of
of sustainable bike routes and pedestrian trails, existing Neighbourhood
citizens who are informed about health, community based food, recreation
9
based community gardens and local food initiatives, new civic clean energy
and the benefits of a sustainable River. New initiatives are envisioned, such
3
resources and the WiFI River Talk network, providing public outreach and
as the development of sustainable consumer products: 1% RiverFirst clean
education on local conservation. Renewable energy in Parklands provides
road salt and natural lawn fertilizer products to raise public awareness of how
clean power for charging electric vehicles and on shore power (OSP) for
everyday consumer practices can improve River ecology and community
green industry, reducing future energy cost risks, noise and emissions.
INFORMATION + ENERGY NETWORKS
0 500’ 1000’ 2000’ 4000’
health far beyond the Minneapolis Riverfront.
AFT
Existing Parkland Prarie Loop Terminal RiverTalk Usage RiverFirst Parklands create significant new opportunities for urban agriculture,
Developed Parkland Trail Connections Community Garden
help provide for municipal food security and expand neighbourhood access
DR
Trails WiFi Repeater CSA Drop Off
Proposed Connection Prarie Loop Local Produce Market to healthy food and nutrition in ways that build communities and local
Photovoltaic Energy Interstate Highway Riverfirst Urban Agriculture Building
business enterprises. Together the RiverFirst Green Network systems link
12
13. Water
Watershed – Impaired Waters Stormwater Flows
8
Hg – Rainfall River Outfall
Mercury
17 12
PCB – Current: Pipe System
Polychlorinated
bipehyls
19
22 FC –
Fecal Coliforum
PFOS –
41
Perfluoroctane Proposed: Riverfirst
Sulfinate
T–
Turbidity
31 96
29
NaCl –
Sodium Chloride
84
The basis of RiverFirst lies in restoring the relationship of land to water, the RiverFirst proposes a system of bio-filtration opportunities including a new
notion of B’dote in Native American cultures, where every joining of waters 20 acre wetland at the current barge port that can receive and clean large
53
has a sacred and also practical status in that these moments of hydrologic quantities of north side storm flows while also creating rich and diverse new
connections maintain the heath of the overall tree-like system. As ”limbs” emergent ecosystem based on what had previously existed there. A stair-
have become severed and polluted over the years the natural function of step series of biofiltratrion terraced gardens along Dowling also provides
these tributaries has been lost. The watersheds which feed this reach of the an environment for cultivating native “crops” such as American lotus and
67 Mississippi now contribute a range of urban pollutants including mercury, Arrowhead which historically fed Native Americans and waterfowl. At the
PCB’s, and most importantly salt from roadways. Reversing this trend requires Northeast side, existing parks provide a starting point for a series of new
a system-wide solution within each watershed. But the zone along the river storm water ravines and seasonal creeks which gently slope from Marshall
where piped outfalls occur is a fundamental place to start transforming the St. to the river, allowing both people and water new access to the shoreline.
current hard infrastructure into a “soft” one where storm flows are brought These measures provide a powerful starting point within each watershed in
to the surface wherever feasible to be naturally cleansed by riparian corridors terms of treating pollutants at their most concentrated, but also create a new
and wetland features cultivated with bio-filtering species. visibility for a natural hydrology that will support new urban ecosystems.
STORM WATER
0 500’ 1000’ 2000’ 4000’
Parkland Watershed Regions
AFT
Stormwater Outfall
Hidden Stormwater Outfall
DR
Industrial Outfall
Stormwater Drainage
13